The rugged western ghats make it an ideal haven for many species of birds and animals and also provide a corridor for migration. The western ghats called the Sahyadris in Goa, extend for a total of 600kms in Goa of their total length of 3702 kms.The widest belt of forests along the western ghats is in Goa and neighbouring Karnataka state. The high rainfall accounts for this because the elevation of the mountain range here is lower. The coastal areas on the other hand, provide the tropical backdrop. There are several plants and trees unique to Goa and some introduced by the Portuguese, most famous of which is the green Chilies, which today has become an essential ingredient in the Indian Curry.
The tropical location of Goa is responsible for its warm humid climate and laterite and lateritic Clayey-loamy soil. The mean temperature even in the coldest month is over 20 degrees centigrade.
Wildlife Sanctuaries In Goa:
Bhagwan Mahavir Sanctuary In Molem, Goa:
Located at the foothills of the Western Ghats, near the Molem village, Bhagwan Mahavir Santuary, Goa lies on the eastern border of the state. If you are a wildlife enthusiast a few days in the Tourists Complex run by the Goa Tourism Development Corporation is a must. Staying here you could come across some of the rare species of birds and stealthy panthers on the prowl. But the most dangerous of the animals are the doles, the wild dogs, than any other carnivore
Cotigao Wildlife Sanctuary, Goa :
The Cotigao Wildlife Sanctuary, Goa is located 10 km southeast of Chaudi. It was established in 1969 to protect a vulnerable area of the forest in the Goa-Karnataka border.
The 25 m high treetop watchtower overlooks a waterhole that attracts animals around dawn and dusk. It is an exciting experience to watch them from the tower. An overnight stay for the wildlife enthusiasts will be an experience worth remembering but prior written permission for an overnight stay; either in the watchtower or the forest department's small rest house must be obtained from the Deputy Conservator of Forests.
Bondla Wildlife Sanctuary, Goa :
Bondla Wildlife Sanctuary, Goa is located in the lush upland foothills of the Western Ghats. Its sprawling deer park and the mini zoos are major attractions tourists and the locals. Originally established for the stray animals, Bondla Wildlife Sanctuary, Goa, is now a breeding colony for large species of deer.
Salim Ali Bird Sanctaury:
On the western tip to the island of Chorao along River Mandovi, mangrove swamps cover this bird-watchers' paradise aptly named after India's best-known ornithologist.
